Deciding to close, partially close or reopen schools should be guided by a risk-based approach to maximize the educational and health benefit for students, teachers, staff, and the wider community, and help prevent a new outbreak of COVID-19 in the community.
WHO, UNICEF and IFRC have issued guidance on the prevention and control of COVID-19 in schools. Factors to consider in a general health risk assessment include epidemiological factors, health system and public health capacities,2 community engagement and government capacity to sustain social and economic support to the most vulnerable.
In a recent framework for reopening schools, partners highlight six key dimensions to consider when planning: policy, financing, safe operations, learning, reaching the most marginalized and wellbeing/protection.
The full document from the World Health Organisation is available below:
